International Relations Study Plan
International Relations Study Plan
International Relations Study Plan
Define International Relations. Discuss its scope and importance of the study of International Relations.
(2000)
Do you agree that in contemporary International Relations, International Economic and Trade linkages
are being used as pressure tactics in inter-State Relations? (2000)
The age of isolation is over. The modern states act and behave as member of the international
community. Qualify the statement with reference to the following: (2004)
(a) Definition and scope of International Relations.
(b) Nature and utility of the subject.
The relations between the sovereign states of the world are becoming one of the most important aspects
of contemporary life. Evaluate with reference to the importance of international relations. (2005)
Explain, with examples, the main principles of the NEO-REALIST SCHOOL OF THOUGHT in
International Relations. How does Neo-Realism differ from Classical Realism? (2006)
Explain, with examples, the main principles of the NEO-LIBERAL SCHOOL OF THOUGHT in
International Relations. How does Neo-Liberalism differ from Classical Liberalism/Idealism? (2006)
Comparatively analyze the basic philosophy of International Relations, “Peace and Security” has been
challenged by the emerging “Economic Regionalism and Military Technologies”. (2007)
"Can you imagine a world with out inter-state relations"? Explain the importance of International Relations
in the Nuclear age. (2010)
Identify the main arguments of the Realism and Liberalism in International Relations. Which approach
appeals to you as a better explaining International Relations and why? Discuss the empirical
evidence.(2011)
Define International Relations. Identify and explain its continuously changing and expanding nature and
subject matter? (2011)
Discuss the development of the study of " International Relations" and define its core influential factors
and define its role in the post-cold war era? (2012)
Discuss evolution and development of the discipline of International Relations; define the dominant
factors responsible for and explain their role in the post-cold war era.(2014)
What are the essential difference between the liberal internationalist and realist theories? In
your opinion, why is realism the most dominant theory in the discipline of International
Relations? (2017)
Determine the factors of emergence of NEOLIBERAL INSTITUTIONALISM; highlight your
discussion with practices of International Financial Institutions and Pakistan (2017)
Describe the evolutionary process through which IR acquired the status of an academic discipline (2018)
(2018)
FOREIGN POLICY
In the modern era the foreign policy is directly affected by the economic conditions of a country. Discuss.
(2001)
Explain the future of Disarmament with reference to the foreign policy of major Powers. (2001)
Define “Economics as an instrument in foreign policy" and explain its fundamental characteristic which
can help to achieve state's objectives.
(2012)
Point out the main goals of Foreign policy of states and determine the factors which influence its making
and implementation. (2016)
2018
PAKISTAN’S FOREIGN POLICY
How does domestic politics influence foreign policy decision making? Explain with reference to Pakistan’s
policy towards India. (2006)
Do you agree that the post-Cold War international scenario has generated more constraints that
opportunities for Pakistan's foreign policy? If so, what those? Suggest measures enabling Pakistan to
face the 'new challenges'.(2014)
2018
Analyze and elaborate the changes in Chinese foreign policy since the death of Mao dse dung. (2002)
IMPERIALISM
DÉTENTE
Short Notes: Detente (2002)
Define Detente. Is a Detente possible between India and Pakistan? Give your arguments. (2003)
DETERRENCE
Define the Politics of Nuclear Proliferation. How far the super powers have been responsible for the
proliferation of Nuclear weapons. (2000)
What is Nuclear Proliferation? How far the United States of America is justified in pursuing the. Policy of
Non-proliferation towards North Korea and Iran? (2003)
What is nuclear proliferation? How far the United States of America is justified in making a nuclear deal
with India? (2009)
INTERNATIONAL LAW
(2018)
Russian Revolution:
(2016)
2018
TERRORISM
Short Notes: Terrorism; (2005)
Short Notes: Control of Mass destruction weapons; (2005)
What are the main problems in defining ‘terrorism’? Also narrate the implications of the “War on
Terrorism” for International Law. (2006)
Terrorism has compelled everyone to think, “No one can be trusted and everyone is to be feared.”
Discuss an appropriate response to Domestic and International terrorism. (2008)
Explain why, despite being target of terrorism, Pakistan's international allies often publicly express
dissatisfaction with Pakistan's counter terrorism policy and actions? Is this a failure of Pakistani diplomacy
or weakness in its policy? Identify the fault and suggest corrective measures, if required. (2011)
"A single catastrophic event "Nine Eleven", has turned the world topsy-turvy". Discuss.(2015)
The phenomenon of terrorism has occupied central stage in today's world. Highlight the
difference between terrorism and freedom struggle. Discuss the issue of terrorism in
backdrop of what is happening in Afghanistan, Palestine and Kashmir.(2015)
BALANCE OF TERROR
"Balance of terror and not of Power is helpful in maintaining Peace in the nuclear Power age Comment.
(2001)
Short Notes: Balance to Terror (2004)
Define balance of terror. How far it has succeeded in preventing a major war in the world? (2010)
BALANCE OF POWER
In the context of its nature, purpose and devices, how does balance of power influence regional systems?
(2005)
How does domestic politics influence foreign policy decision making? Explain with reference to Pakistan’s
policy towards India. (2006)
Describe interactions among Nations through diplomacy for establishing balance of power to preserve
their National Interest. (2007)
Critically discuss the concept of Balance of power in the light of Hans Morgenthau's thought.(2013)
Explain the concept of Balance of Power in international relations and evaluate its relevance after the
demise of Soviet Russia.(2014)
COLD WAR
Critically discuss the origin and developments of the cold war and its consequences on world politics.
(2009)
Discuss and analyze the role of Soviet Union during the Cold War. Was it a stabilizing or destabilizing
factor in International Relations? Elaborate your answer with reference to theory and facts.(2011)
Discuss the development of the study of “International Relations" and define its core influential factors
and define its role in the post-cold war era? (2012)
Discuss the strategic importance of "Indian ocean" in the post-cold war scenario and analyze the role of
the United States and China in the region. Also identify vital political, economic, and strategic interests of
both great powers in the contemporary geopolitical situation. (2012)
2018
DIPLOMACY
International system creates interactions among states through diplomacy, international law, and
economic relations. Comment. (2005)
Describe interactions among Nations through diplomacy for establishing balance of power to preserve
their National Interest. (2007)
Discuss "Diplomacy" and define its kinds. Explain diplomatic means which can help to resolve disputes
and conflicts in the world. (2012)
INTERNATIONAL SYSTEM
The economic power determines the superiority and political domination of a country in International
System? Discuss. (2004)
International system creates interactions among states through diplomacy, international law, and
economic relations. Comments. (2005)
The emergency of sovereign state as a primary actor was just the beginning of the evolution of modern
International System. Assess the pace of change in International Relations from 1815 to 1914. (2008)
“Development of International Law and Organization are the efforts of all states to make International
System less anarchic”. Elucidate the statement. (2008)
How effective the UN in dealing with global problems. What will the International System look like in the
year 2050? (2008)
Do you believe that Diplomacy is the ultimate way to resolve international disputes? What diplomatic
means are significant to realize that goal in general and Pakistan-India in particular?(2014)
INTERNATIONAL ECONOMICS
Do you agree that in contemporary International Relations, International Economic and Trade linkages
are being used as pressure tactics in inter-State Relations? (2000)
What are the major demands of the SOUTH against the NORTH for a New International Economic
Order? (2002)
Economics realities compelled the members of the developing world to demand for the establishment of
New International Economic Order. Give your comment. (2009)
"After the downfall of Colonialism. The western Powers have embarked upon a new policy of "Economic
Imperialism" through IMF, World Bank, Multi-nationals and WTO". Do you agree? Substantiate (2010)
UNITED NATIONS
How effective arc international organizations in dealing with the global problems. Discuss with particular
reference to the UN from 1945 to present. (2005)
The two great wars had dismantled colonialism and created Third World and Non-Alignment Movement.
How did the UN justify its role in the World Affairs? (2007)
How effective the UN in dealing with global problems. What will the International System look like in the
year 2050? (2008)
Discuss the significance and increasing role of International Society in the classically sovereign domains
of state with reference to United Nations. Also debate whether the UN in its present structure of status
can play the increased role expected of it? (2011)
(2016)
The non-state actor as a military competitor is gaining ground in the Middle East with the
rise of ISIS. What strategies can the United Nations and major powers implement in order
to ensure peace and security in Iraq and Syria. (2017)
NATO
“Notwithstanding its recent expansion NATO should be disbanded because the purpose for which it was
established exists no more". Do you agree with this statement? Give reasons. (2002)
What factors were responsible for the creation of the WARSAW and NATO pacts? Can NATO's
continuing existence be justified? (2009)
ORGANIZATIONS
Define Non-Aligned Movement? Make an appraisal of its role and discuss the future of NAM. (2000)
Short Notes: SEATO (2001)
Short Notes: NAM (2002)
Short Notes: WTO (2002)
OIC has failed to foster Pan Islamic unity and solidarity to meet the challenges faced by the Ummah in a
spirit of cooperation and collective action. Indeed it is an important forum that needs complete
overhauling/restructuring. Comment and suggest measures to make it effective. (2004)
"After the downfall of Colonialism. The western Powers have embarked upon a new policy of "Economic
Imperialism" through IMF, World Bank, Multinationals and WTO". Do you agree? Substantiate (2010)
Critically discuss "Pakistan's participation in SEATO and CENTO” and explain political, strategic, and
economic causes and define its potential disadvantages for the country's foreign policy and diplomacy.
(2012)
Critically evaluate the joining of Western Alliances (SEATO & CENTO) by Pakistan and explain its
political, economic and strategic consequences for the state's policy.(2014)
NATION-STATE
President Bush's invasion of Afghanistan and Iraq, without sound genuine reasons has made the future of
the Modern Nation State doubtful. Do you agree? Give reasons for your answer. (2003)
How can a Nation state best protect her interest and identity in a transitional World Order? (2008)
Describe and discuss the concept of Nation-State and evaluate its future in the light of certain recent
developments. (2009)
Describe the basic features of modern nation state. What are the dangers to its future? (2010)
The nation-state system is in a flux with an independence referendum in Scotland and
another projected for Catalonia in September 2017. Critically evaluate reasons as to why
the modern nation-state in Europe faces internal challenges to its sovereignty and territorial
integrity. (2017)
INTERNATIONAL SOCIETY
Discuss the significance and increasing role of International Society in the classically sovereign domains
of state with reference to United Nations. Also debate whether the UN in its present structure of status
can play the increased role expected of it? (2011)
PAKISTAN
(2016)
(2016)
(2016)
How can the energy crisis of Pakistan be resolved? Emphasize your discussion Vis-à-vis CPEC (2017)
Pakistan is one of the top 10 countries hit by global climate change trends: what can be the ways and
means to manage climate change trends? (2017)
(2018)
PAKISTAN-INDIA
Define the present "Russian Doctrine" and discuss its impact on Pakistan and India. (2000)
Explain the impact of India-Pakistan nuclearization on strategic stability in South Asia. (2006)
How does domestic politics influence foreign policy decision making? Explain with reference to Pakistan’s
policy towards India. (2006)
Since South Asia has been dominated by the antagonism between India and Pakistan, what impact do
nuclear weapons have on the balance of power in the region? (2008)
Critically evaluate the strategically competitive dynamics of Pakistan-India relations in the
context of Pakistan's growing ties with China and India's increased alignment with the
United States. (2017)
Evaluate the significance of conflict between India and Pakistan in global perspective of
terrorism (2017)
Evaluate the significance of water conflict between India and Pakistan in perspective of
Indus Water Treaty. (2017)
Discuss NUCLEAR FACTOR as one of the major determinants of International politics with
reference to USA-India-Pakistan (2017)
2018
CHINA
(2016
The rise of China is being heralded as a return of 'balance of power' politics in International
relations. As the world moves towards multi-polarity, account for the essential features of
the international security architecture and its evolving dynamics. (2017)
(2018)
AFGHANISTAN
President Bush's invasion of Afghanistan and Iraq, without sound genuine reasons has made the future of
the Modern Nation State doubtful. Do you agree? Give reasons for your answer. (2003)
How do you perceive US military engagement in Afghanistan and Iraq and its implications in near future?
(2007)
Critically Define " American interests in Afghanistan" and explain its political strategic failure in the region
and its unnecessary pressure on Pakistan to "do more" which can destabilize the regional scenario rather
than stabilizing the situation. Also discuss the serious impact of the American war on terror on the
Pakistan's state, Society and system. (2012)
Visualize the post-Taliban scenario in Afghanistan and discuss implications for
Pakistan.(2015)
2018
UNITED STATES
President Bush's invasion of Afghanistan and Iraq, without sound genuine reasons has made the future of
the Modern Nation State doubtful. Do you agree? Give reasons for your answer. (2003)
The introduction of the concepts of' Unilateralism and pre-emptive Strike by President Bush has eroded
the basis of International law and Diplomacy, in inter-state relations. Discuss. (2003)
How do you perceive US military engagement in Afghanistan and Iraq and its implications in near future?
(2007)
Discuss the role of Nuclear Diplomacy in South Asia with particular reference to, “US Indian Nuclear deal
has activated Indo-Russian Nuclear Cooperation”. (2007)
"The Al- Qaeda phobia has made USA a neurotic Super Power. She is disregarding the norms of
International Law and Diplomacy". Make your comments by a brief survey of US Global Policy. (2010)
Discuss the strategic importance of "Indian ocean" in the post-cold war scenario and analyze the role of
the United States and China in the region. Also identify vital political, economic, and strategic interests of
both great powers in the contemporary geopolitical situation. (2012)
Critically Define “American interests in Afghanistan" and explain its political strategic failure in the region
and its unnecessary pressure on Pakistan to "do more" which can destabilize the regional scenario rather
than stabilizing the situation. Also discuss the serious impact of the American war on terror on the
Pakistan's state, Society and system. (2012)
Carry out a comparative analysis of US foreign policy towards South Asia during and after the Cold
war.(2013)
MIDDLE EAST
NATIONALISM
Nationalism has been major cause of conflicts. Justify with special reference to the following: (2004)
(a) Western concept of Nationalism
(b) Islamic concept
Discuss "Nationalism" and define its silent features in the post-cold war situation and explain its grave
consequences with reference to eastern Europe, African continent and South Asian tragic incidents. Also
debate whether the UN and superpowers played any role in preventing bloodbath in the regions. (2012)
NATIONAL POWER
"It is the national power both Tangible and Intangible that determines the actual as well as potential power
of state". In the light of this statement discuss in detail the nature the attributes of national power. (2002)
Examine the concept of National Power and its essential ingredients (2016)
Clash of Civilization
Write a critical analysis of the theory of ‘Clash of Civilizations’. What are the prospects of a dialogue
among Civilizations? (2006)
(2016)
Economic Liberalism:
What are the principal challenges and potential opportunities for economic liberalization and
democratization in the Muslim world? (2006)
(2018)
MISCELLANEOUS
"Globalization” and "Regionalism ". Do you think these terms are antagonistic or complimentary? Give
examples in your arguments. (2002)
How would a realist analyze the current problems in International Politics; (2005?)
“Europeans transformed Westphalia System of States into empires during 16th, 17th and 18th centuries
to increase their Wealth and Power.” Elucidate the statement. (2007)
The post-Cold War, World Order promised Peace, Security, Democracy, Nuclear Non-proliferation and
Human Rights protection. Assess its repercussions at present confronted by the world community in the
context of Terrorism, Nuclear Proliferation, Globalization and erosion of Human Dignity. (2007)
War and Peace are conflicting values of International Politics. A state cannot encourage one without
sacrificing other. Describe three means of peace and security in nuclear age. (2008)
Explain the socio-economic and Political Compulsions which led to the formation of Regional Blocs.
(2010)
Discuss and explain the causes of World War II. Could a different policy by Britain, France and USA have
avoided its occurrence? (2011)
Discuss and analyze the role of Soviet Union during the Cold War. Was it a stabilizing or destabilizing
factor in International Relations? Elaborate your answer with reference to theory and facts. (2011)
Evaluate the general view the peace of Westphalia as the founding moment for modern state system. Do
you think this system is challenged in the contemporary world?
In what ways was the Versailles treaty a contributory factor to European political instability in the period
1919-39? (2013)
Elucidate the impact of world-war II on the decolonialization process in Asia. (2013)
Describe the efforts of African National Congress against Apartheid regime of South Africa (2013)
Do you support the argument that Iran-US nuclear deal will bring a new wave of instability in the region
and can also cause serious implications for global non-proliferation regime?(2014)
(2016)
(2016)
(2016)
The positivist and post-positivist debate offers a striking contrast in terms of approach and
methodology of the study of International Relations. Describe, compare and critically
evaluate the divergence between the two debates. Are there any points of convergence?
(2017)
2018
Globalization:
Is globalization under threat because of world economic crises? (2013)
Define the term globalization. Do you believe its prospects are threatened because of the current
economic crises in general and third world economies in particular? (2014)
Define globalization and its attendant manifestations in global politics. Do you agree with
the view that economic globalization is a form of neo-imperialism which only stands to
exploit the Third World states? (2017)
Elaborate Systems Thinking Theory in view of Pakistan and Globalization (2017)
2018